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Top 10 Culinary Travel Destinations for your 2025 Gastronomic Journey

As the world reopens to wanderlust and adventure, culinary travel has emerged as one of the most exciting trends of 2025. Foodies from around the globe are planning their itineraries around must-visit restaurants, immersive cooking classes, wine tastings, and cultural food tours. Whether it’s savoring Michelin-starred creations or indulging in the simple pleasures of street food, gastronomic journeys promise a feast for every sense. Here are the top 10 cities you must visit on your gastronomic adventure in 2025.

1. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo’s culinary scene is a haven for food enthusiasts. As the city with the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the world, it offers an unparalleled range of dining experiences. From elegant kaiseki meals to the world-famous sushi at Tsukiji Market, Tokyo is a gastronomic paradise. Don’t miss:

• Sushi at Sukiyabashi Jiro, a bucket-list experience.
• Street food at Asakusa, including takoyaki and melon pan.
• A sake-tasting tour in the city’s historic breweries.
• The city boasts several exceptional three-starred restaurants as of the latest Michelin Guide Tokyo 2025. Here are five of the top establishments: Nihonryori Ryugin – Chef: Seiji Yamamoto, Sushi Saito – Chef: Takashi Saito, Quintessence Chef: Shuzo Kishida, L’Osier – Chef: Olivier Chaignon, and Sazenka – Chef: Tomoya Kawada.
• Here are three hotels to consider when visiting Tokyo, Japan: The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon, The Tokyo Station Hotel, and Andaz Tokyo.

2. Lyon, France

Known as the “Gastronomic Capital of France,” Lyon is where food lovers come to worship at the altar of French cuisine. Home to iconic bouchons (traditional Lyonnais restaurants), the city is famed for its rich flavors and culinary traditions. Top experiences include:

• Tasting quenelles and coq au vin at a classic bouchon.
• Exploring the Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse market.
• Taking a wine tour to nearby Beaujolais vineyards.
• Lyon, France, renowned as a gastronomic capital, boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants: La Mère Brazier – Chef: Mathieu Viannay, Le Neuvième Art – Chef: Christophe Roure, Takao Takano – Chef: Takao Takano, La Sommelière – Chef: Florent Poulard.
• Here are three hotels to consider when visiting Lyon, France: InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu, Villa Maïa, and Villa Florentine.

3. Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok’s vibrant street food culture is legendary. The city seamlessly blends traditional Thai flavors with innovative techniques. Whether you’re dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant or a roadside stall, Bangkok offers an unforgettable culinary experience. Highlights include:

• Street food at Yaowarat (Chinatown), including pad Thai and mango sticky rice.
• Dining at Gaggan Anand, a pioneer of modern Indian-Thai fusion.
• Learning to cook Thai dishes in a hands-on cooking class.
• As of January 2025, Bangkok’s culinary scene boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants renowned for their exceptional cuisine and dining experiences. Sorn – Chef: Supaksorn “Ice” Jongsiri, Mezzaluna, R-Haan – Chef: Chumpol Jangprai, Sühring – Chefs: Thomas and Mathias Sühring, and Gaa – Chef: Garima Arora.
• When you visit Bangkok, check out these three amazing hotel properties: The Okura Prestige Bangkok, Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok, and W Bangkok Hotel.

4. Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City is a vibrant tapestry of flavors and traditions, blending indigenous and Spanish influences. As a UNESCO-recognized “City of Gastronomy,” it’s the perfect place to explore authentic Mexican cuisine. Don’t miss:

• Tacos al pastor from local taquerias.
• Mole tasting at traditional markets.
• Fine dining at Pujol, ranked among the best restaurants in the world.
• Mexico City boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants recognized for their exceptional culinary excellence. Here are the top five: Pujol – Chef: Enrique Olvera, Quintonil – Chef: Jorge Vallejo, Rosetta – Chef: Elena Reygadas, Sud 777 – Chef: Edgar Núñez, and Em – Chef: Lucho Martínez.
• Check out these incredible hotels in Mexico City: Alexander, Colima 71 Art Community Hotel, and Brick Hotel.

5. San Sebastian, Spain

San Sebastian’s culinary reputation precedes it. With more Michelin stars per capita than any other city in Europe, it’s a dream destination for food enthusiasts. The city’s pintxos (small tapas-like dishes) culture is an experience in itself. Key highlights include:

• A pintxos crawl in the Old Town (Parte Vieja).
• Dining at Arzak, a temple of Basque cuisine.
• Exploring the local cider houses and their unique pairings.
• Renowned for its exceptional culinary scene, San Sebastián, Spain, boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants. Here are the top five establishments: Arzak – Chefs: Juan Mari Arzak and Elena Arzak, Akelarre -Chef: Pedro Subijana, Martín Berasategui – Chef: Martín Berasategui, Mugaritz – Chef: Andoni Luis Aduriz, and Kokotxa – Chef: Dani López.
• Before visiting San Sabastian, check out these unique hotel properties: Hotel Maria Cristina, Hotel Arbaso, and Hotel Villa Soro.

6. Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town’s food scene is as diverse as its landscape. From its coastal seafood to fusion dishes inspired by South African heritage, this city offers a unique culinary experience. Highlights include:

• Seafood feasts at V&A Waterfront.
• Wine tours in the Stellenbosch and Franschhoek regions.
• Tasting Cape Malay cuisine in the Bo-Kaap neighborhood.
• the city boasts several fine dining establishments garnered international acclaim for their exceptional cuisine and dining experiences. Here are five top restaurants in Cape Town: La Colombe, Fyn, The Test Kitchen, Pier, and Salsify at the Roundhouse.
• Discover unique hotels in Cape Town before booking your trip: The Cellars-Hohenort, South Beach Camps Bay, and Cape Grace, a Fairmont Managed Hotel.

7. New York City, USA

The Big Apple continues to be a global culinary powerhouse in 2025. Its vibrant food scene encompasses everything from iconic pizza joints to innovative Michelin-starred dining. Must-try experiences include:

• Bagels and lox at a classic deli.
• A food tour of Chinatown, Little Italy, and the Lower East Side.
• Dining at Eleven Madison Park for a luxurious plant-based experience.
• Some of the top Michelin-starred restaurants in New York City are Eleven Madison Park – Chef: Daniel Humm, Le Bernardin – Chef: Éric Ripert, Per Se – Chef: Thomas Keller, Jungsik, Masa, Atomix, Blue Hill at Stone Barns, Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare – Chef: César Ramírez, Ko (by Momofuku), Aquavit.
• In addition to NYC, San Francisco, California and Austin, Texas are well known for their amazing cuisine.
• NYC has incredible hotel properties to select from, here are a few to explore: 11 Howard, The Mercer, and The Standard High Line.

8. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is a sensory delight for food lovers. Its bustling markets and street vendors serve some of the most flavorful dishes in Southeast Asia. Don’t miss:

• Pho and banh mi from street-side vendors.
• Exploring Ben Thanh Market for local snacks.
• Taking a Mekong Delta food tour for a deeper culinary dive.
• As of January 2025, Ho Chi Minh City has one Michelin-starred restaurant but boasts several other notable restaurants that have garnered international acclaim: Anan Saigon – Chef: Peter Cuong Franklin (1 Michelin Star), Hervé Dining Room – Chef: Hervé Rodriguez, La Villa French Restaurant – Chef: Thierry Mounon, Jardin Des Sens – Chefs: Jacques and Laurent Pourcel, and Dim Tu Tac.
• Planning your trip to Ho Chi Minh City? Check these hotels out first: Villa Song Saigon, The Myst Dong Khoi, and Park Hyatt Saigon.

9. Florence, Italy

Florence is synonymous with Tuscan cuisine, offering simple yet exquisite dishes made with the finest local ingredients. As the heart of Italian gastronomy, Florence is a must-visit for any food lover. Highlights include:

• Indulging in bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak).
• Truffle hunting in the surrounding countryside.
• Sipping Chianti in a traditional wine cellar.
• Florence, Italy, boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants renowned for their exceptional cuisine and distinguished chefs. Here are the top five: Enoteca Pinchiorri – Chef: Annie Féolde, Santa Elisabetta – Chef: Rocco De Santis, Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura – Chefs: Karime López and Takahiko Kondo, Il Palagio – Chef: Paolo Lavezzini, and Borgo San Jacopo – Chef: Claudio Mengoni.
• Before booking your trip to Florence, explore Villa Tolomei Hotel & Resort, Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, and The St. Regis Florence.

10. Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne’s multicultural food scene is a melting pot of global flavors. The city’s vibrant café culture and innovative dining experiences make it a gastronomic hotspot. Key experiences include:

• Enjoying brunch at one of Melbourne’s iconic cafés.
• Savoring fresh seafood at the Queen Victoria Market.
• Embarking on a wine tour in the Yarra Valley.
• Melbourne boasts several fine dining establishments with significant acclaim for their exceptional cuisine and renowned chefs. Here are five of the top restaurants: Attica – Chef: Ben Shewry, Vue de Monde – Chef: Hugh Allen, Flower Drum – Chef: Anthony Lui, Minamishima – Chef: Koichi Minamishima, and Grossi Florentino – Chef: Guy Grossi.
• Discover amazing hotels in Melbourne: W Melbourne, The Ritz-Carlton, and Art Series – The Olsen.

Why Gastronomic Journeys Are So Popular in 2025

The rise of gastronomic travel reflects a global desire to connect with cultures through food. Travelers are seeking more immersive experiences, from learning to make traditional dishes to understanding the stories behind local ingredients. With the continued focus on sustainable tourism, many cities are championing farm-to-table dining and eco-friendly practices, making these journeys even more meaningful.

Tips for Planning Your Gastronomic Journey

1. Research Local Favorites: Beyond top-rated restaurants, explore local markets and hidden gems.
2. Book in Advance: Popular dining spots often require reservations months in advance.
3. Take a Cooking Class: Learn to recreate the flavors of your journey at home.
4. Stay Central: Choose accommodations close to culinary hotspots to maximize your experience.
5. Pack Smart: Bring an appetite and leave room for local specialties and edible souvenirs.

Conclusion

Culinary travel in 2025 promises unforgettable experiences that go beyond just eating. From savoring the delicate flavors of Tokyo to indulging in the vibrant dishes of Mexico City, gastronomic journeys are a delicious way to explore the world. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, these destinations offer something extraordinary for every palate. So, pack your bags and embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.